In an exciting pre-Super Bowl auction, Johnny Unitas’ prized Super Bowl V ring from the Baltimore Colts’ victory garnered an astounding sale price of $258,500. This auction, part of the annual Super Bowl Auction held in Las Vegas, showcased various items from the legendary quarterback’s illustrious career, all consigned by his family. Despite an early exit from the game due to injury, Unitas’ memorabilia, including his Super Bowl ring, caught the attention of collectors, resulting in high bids and considerable interest.
Interestingly, the auction price of Unitas’ Super Bowl V ring surpassed that of his 1958 NFL championship ring by over $100,000. The latter ring holds historical significance as it commemorates Unitas’ role in the iconic overtime victory against the New York Giants, a game that is credited with elevating the national stature of professional football.
Aside from the Super Bowl rings, other items of Unitas’ memorabilia were also sold at the auction. His Hall of Fame ring fetched a price of $38,175, while his 1967 NFL MVP award went for a notable $64,625. Additionally, a pair of Unitas’ signature high-top cleats was sold for $27,025.
Sharing the spotlight with Unitas’ Super Bowl ring was a game-worn jersey by Tom Brady from 2014. This jersey, authenticated by MeiGray and worn during the season opener against the Dolphins, also fetched an impressive price of $258,500. This particular jersey represented a season in which Brady secured his fourth of seven Super Bowl titles, further adding to its value and appeal.
The auction also featured items from Anthony Munoz, an esteemed Hall of Fame offensive lineman. Among his sold items was a game-worn 1980s Cincinnati Bengals jersey, which achieved a price of $16,450. Additionally, Munoz’s uniform from his final NFL game realized $11,456, showcasing the significance of memorabilia associated with football legends and their enduring legacy.
Other notable sales from the auction included a game-worn 2023 Brock Purdy jersey, which sold for $30,550, and a 2022 Lamar Jackson game-worn jersey, which fetched $22,325. A 1980s Ronnie Lott game-worn helmet garnered a price of $19,975, while a 1997 Dan Marino game-worn jersey achieved $17,625. Lastly, a game-used Super Bowl XXXVIII football was sold for $14,100. These sales exemplify the continued allure and value of memorabilia from football greats, attracting collectors and avid fans who yearn to own a piece of sports history.
In conclusion, the auction of Johnny Unitas’ Super Bowl and championship rings, along with various other football memorabilia, showcased the enduring legacy and value of such items. With record-breaking prices achieved, it is evident that collectors and fans alike are willing to invest in these tangible pieces of football history. The auction highlighted the continued fascination and appreciation for the achievements of legendary players, ensuring that their impact on the sport is never forgotten.
